Everyone has their own tricks for saving a few bucks, but some methods go far beyond clipping coupons or skipping takeout. There’s a whole world of ultra-frugal strategies people keep to themselves, either because they’re a little unusual, a little sneaky, or just too personal to share.
Here are some extreme (and secretly brilliant) ways people save money without anyone else knowing.
I collected these from around the web, where people share their crazy stories. You can try them or avoid them: it’s all up to you!
Took Home Leftovers From the Hospital Kitchen
One clever way to save on groceries? Working somewhere that gives away leftover food. In a hospital kitchen, after meals are served, the remaining food often goes unclaimed, and it’s not uncommon to be allowed to take some home. With enough access, it’s possible to coast through an entire summer without spending much, if anything, on food.
Lived Out of the Car
During the awkward transition between rental leases, living out of a car can become a temporary solution, especially when there’s access to campus facilities like a gym for showers, a library for study time, and even a beach nearby. With a little resourcefulness, it’s possible to maintain a routine without a permanent roof overhead.
Crashed Parties To Drink for Free
College often brings out some creative budgeting moves.
One trick? Attending parties without paying the cover by reusing discarded cups. Sure, it might feel a little gross in hindsight, but when money is tight, this strategy keeps the party going—for free.
Stole Neighbors’ Pens
Frugality can start early. As a kid, spotting an opportunity to grab promotional pens left outside houses was like finding treasure. With a quiet street and a bit of initiative, it’s easy to walk away with a lifetime supply of writing utensils—before the neighbors even realize they were there.
Walked for Over an Hour to Work
Commuting on foot isn’t unusual, but doing it for over an hour each way without ever mentioning the distance? That’s dedication. It’s a great way to save on gas, reduce wear on a car, and stay in shape, all without drawing attention to the effort involved.
Used the Bathroom at School To Save On Toilet Paper
Stretching a single pack of toilet paper over an entire year is possible—if most of your bathroom breaks happen at school. With long days on campus, it makes sense to take advantage of the facilities and even bring home a little when needed, all while keeping an emergency roll stashed at home for guests.
Tore Off Vegetable Stems
Every gram counts at the grocery store, especially when produce is priced by weight. One easy (if slightly meticulous) trick is removing vegetable stems before checkout. It doesn’t seem like much, but over time, the savings add up.
Manipulated Time Clock
When it comes to hourly jobs, even a few extra minutes on the clock can make a difference. By strategically choosing where and when to clock out—say, at a different terminal closer to the exit—it’s possible to quietly stretch those earnings, especially as a student on a tight budget.
Picked Up Free Newspapers From Neighbors’ Driveways
Those free shopper papers that pile up in driveways? They’re more useful than they look. Collecting them from empty homes not only helps tidy the neighborhood, but they’re great for tasks like cleaning windows, protecting surfaces during messy jobs, or scooping cat litter. The bags they come in are an added bonus.
Skipped Food for the Family
At the end of the month, when groceries run low, some sacrifices go unnoticed. Quietly skipping meals to make sure there’s enough for a partner or kids might not be talked about, but it happens, and it’s one of the most generous forms of frugality.
Ate Leftover Steaks
Nothing goes to waste when money is tight. Even partially eaten food, like a forgotten doggie bag left in a taxi, can become a perfectly good meal with a little creativity. With some trimming and seasoning, leftovers can be transformed into a hearty stew.
Made Reusable Pads
DIY solutions can cut down recurring expenses. For menstrual products, sewing reusable cloth pads not only saves money but also adds a touch of personality and comfort. They’re easy to clean, fun to customize, and eliminate the need for constant repurchasing.
Didn’t Flush
Saving water (and money on utilities) can come down to changing habits. One common method is to skip flushing the toilet after every pee, especially if it’s light. Some go a step further and wait until the end of the day or until things get noticeably… fragrant. It may not be glamorous, but it works.
Frugality doesn’t always look pretty or normal. But behind closed doors, these small, creative habits make a surprisingly big difference. After all, extreme situations call for extreme savings.
Read More:
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- The 9 Best Budgeting Apps To Make Managing Your Finance Easy
